psychotherapy that includes the body as integral part of experience
Somatic (or body) psychotherapy is the kind of work that once you have practiced it as a therapist, or experienced it as a client, you can "never go back" to regular talk therapy. The reason is simple: the body is the repository of your history as much as the mind. It remembers - and contains many layers and patterns of protection, defense and response that have developed along with emotional and mental experience. Somatic psychotherapy treats the body as an equal partner in the healing process.
Somatic psychotherapy is especially effective for Anxiety, PTSD, interpersonal stress, and early trauma. The body's protective mechanisms and metabolic systems can become over- or under activated in these situations. This work allows us to bring in the full body/mind relationship to help re-regulate these systems.
Professional Training: training for psychotherapists and others in somatic psychotherapy is available through the Mind Meets Body Institute - I offer an introductory workshop: Body Awareness in Psychotherapy, as well as advanced trainings in working with body systems and structures to help deepen student's experience and skill. visit mindmeetsbodyinstitute.comVisit my web site for details.
Keywords: Somatic Experiencing, body-mind therapy, somatic psychotherapy, trauma, stress, Somatic Experiencing Touch, Douglas Smith, body oriented therapy, mindfulness, Mind Meets Body Institute
Interview Q&A
How long have you been in business?
20 plus years
What is your primary product or service?
Counseling and psychotherapy with an emphasis on somatic therapy see listing for details
How did you first become interested in your line of business? (if owner) - What is your background? (If owner or store manager)
Started out as a "regular" counselor - then switched to somatic experiencing which has been focus for the past ten + years
How do you differentiate yourself from other businesses in your category and area?
By the somatic or body-oriented approach. It is a cutting edge and relatively rare kind of work
How many locations do you have and do you have plans to expand?
one
Provide detailed directions to your location
440 Forest Avenue Portland - corner of Forest and Pitt Streets
What type of payments do you accept?
cash - credit cards - Anthem insurance only
Which areas do you service?
Southern Maine - but people travel to see or study with me
Who owns your company or runs daily operations?
Me
What are your hours of operation?
Tues - Wed -
What is the best compliment anyone can give you?
Good job!